With March, the sun overtakes winter’s waning darkness, soothing blue waters flow from the sky, and springtime begins in radiant bursts of new life and color.
Aquamarine, a gemstone with the color of the sea, is a fitting birthstone for this month of renewal. Long held to be a symbol of youth, hope, health and fidelity, this cousin of the Emerald has traditionally been given to inspire harmony in relationships. The serene, cool blue color of Aquamarine beautifully complements spring and summer wardrobes alike.
Aquamarine is one of the many naturally colored gemstones that goldsmith Susan Phipps regularly incorporates into her handmade jewelry designs. A G.I.A. Graduate Gemologist, Susan expertly selects the most vibrant, well cut stones available for use in her work. Her downtown Asheville gallery and studio, Susan Marie Designs, abounds with the colors of spring.
Since most gemstones occur in nature in a variety of hues, many possibilities exist for coordination with spring fashions. Tourmaline is especially versatile. Found in endless subtle variants of greens, pinks and blues, Tourmaline often exhibits two or more colors within the same crystal. Its hardness and durability make Tourmaline suitable for use in any type of jewelry.
Sapphires are also found in many natural shades, including pinks, yellow, violet and green as well as blue. Often Susan uses several colors of Sapphire together within a single pendant or ring. Even Tahitian Black Pearls, one of Susan’s favorite stones to work with, come in a wide range of natural iridescent spring-like colors. Peridot, of lively green color with a hint of gold, is an excellent spring choice for pendants and earrings. And to accentuate all the vibrant gemstone colors, no stone works better than the Diamond, the eternally brilliant birthstone of April.
Visiting Susan Marie Designs, you will enjoy seeing the many beautiful springtime fashion possibilities.
Susan Marie Designs
4 Biltmore Avenue, Downtown Asheville
(828) 277-1272, www.SusanMPhippsDesigns.com
Monday-Saturday 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Sunday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
